The Pennsylvania House of Representatives recently approved legislation to support families of first responders by eliminating realty transfer tax burdens for up to five years, said Rep. Frank Farry (R-Bucks), who co-authored the measure.
“Excluding families of fallen first responders from paying a realty transfer tax after losing a loved one will ease financial burdens of having to move, ultimately helping them during that difficult time,” he said.
House Bill 269 would exempt a spouse or child of a first responder, who receives benefits from the Emergency and Law Enforcement Personnel Death Benefit Act, from paying a realty transfer tax if they decide to sell their house within five years of the death.
Currently, the spouse or children of a first responder who has passed away while protecting and keeping our communities safe have no other choice but to move due to sudden loss of income or they decide to relocate because of the memories. House Bill 269 would eliminate the realty transfer tax for those families up to five years from the date of death, providing them with an opportunity to move with less financial obstacles.
“Our first responders have given so much to our communities and I believe we can show our gratitude for their sacrifices by giving back to their families during difficult times,” Farry said.
House Bill 269 now awaits consideration by the state Senate.
